FT Aviator Update: A Race to the Finish

Manufacturing Progress

We are happy to report we are making excellent progress on the FT Aviator as we track for first shipments at end of Q1’2019 for US customers. Our injection mold (IJM) tool makers have delivered first samples with a level of accuracy beyond our expectations. We were proud to display our first qualification units at CES in Las Vegas in early January where we received amazing feedback, along with a few awards. We continue to refine our part tolerances and test fit to ensure we achieve a level of precise, fluid motion you will come to love from the FT Aviator. Once perfected, the IJM tools will be textured, polished, and made ready for volume production.

FT Aviator Tooling

Commitment to Quality

Our reliability testing will push the product to its limits, and in some cases beyond. We are testing the product at varying temperature and humidity levels to quantify and mitigate effects of these environmental variables. We are testing susceptibility to shock and vibration both in and out of its packaging, because we know you’ll drop it eventually. 😊 We are also lifecycle testing every button and moving assembly to ensure the product will function for years to come.

Current Timeline

Our next pre-production build will be coming up in February. These units will be shared with beta testers and thought leaders for review and feedback. We will integrate this feedback, along with the results from our reliability testing to fine tune the FT Aviator before we begin volume production in March. We expect to start shipping at the end of March.

The Best FT Aviator Experience

We are really excited to be so close to getting this product into the hands of our backers and early adopters. As we test, we learn, and we incorporate those learnings into the product. From my experience, I can tell you that our schedule is aggressive and not without risk. This is typical for any new product from any company, new or established. We are as excited to deliver your product to you, as you are to receive it. We continue to work tirelessly to stay on schedule while incorporating test results and user feedback to ensure you get the very best FT Aviator experience possible.

Keith Brooks

Keith is a proven leader and manager, with more than 20 years of experience in global supply chain engineering and operations, delivering measurable results for multi-billion-dollar hardware and software businesses. Keith has led large cross-functional teams globally, managing budgets of $10 million and more, and has directed management of operations at the top four Tier 1 EMS providers.

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